Poisonous vodka seized

Over hundred bottles of counterfeit vodka have been seized by Trading Standard officers from three Luton shops.

Bottles of Glen’s and Kommissar branded vodka were removed, after officers noticed the label described it as ‘Botteled’ rather than ‘Bottled’.

They discovered Kommissar products had fake duty paid labels.

Three samples tested by the public analyst containing high levels of isopropanol, used as an industrial solvent, and butanol which is used in paint remover. Investigations are ongoing into the source of the counterfeit vodka.

Councillor Aslam Khan said: “It is very worrying to find these dangerous products on sale locally, particularly in the run up to Christmas. Drinking these chemicals could cause serious illness or even death in extreme cases.

“Many unsuspecting consumers may think they are buying cheap duty free alcohol, when they are actually buying fake and dangerous products.”

Any trader found selling these products risks prosecution and losing their licence to sell alcohol.

Trading Standards is advising consumers to avoid these fake products and if they have already bought a bottle, to return it to the shop or contact Trading Standards for advice.